Michigan man facing charges after allegedly making ‘credible threats to kill’ Gov. Whitmer

A Michigan man is facing criminal charges for allegedly making “credible threats” to kill Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D), according to The Detroit News.

Robert Sinclair Tesh, 32, reportedly made threats about Whitmer to a friend on a social media messenger on April 12. Detroit police arrested him in his home later that day, and he was arraigned on April 22. 

“The alleged facts in this case lay out a very disturbing scenario,” prosecutor Kym Worthy told the newspaper in a statement.

“We understand that these times can be stressful and upsetting for many people. But we will not and cannot tolerate threats like these against any public official who are carrying out their duties as efficiently as they can.”

Tesh faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. 

The charges come as Whitmer has experienced death threats on various social media platforms. 

The governor has also faced criticism and protests because of her stay-at-home executive order that has shuttered businesses and prohibited people in Michigan from going to work. Protests have occurred at the state Capitol and in front of her home.  

On Monday, Whitmer called on Republican lawmakers to denounce the death threats against her from people who identified as Republicans. 

State Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R) the following day condemned the threats, calling them “despicable.”

“Those who have populated a number of social media posts with crude, violent and threatening messages about our governor, these folks are thugs and their tactics are despicable,” he said according to The Detroit News.

“It is never OK to threaten the safety or life of another person, elected or otherwise, period.”